Gymnastics team remains undefeated

Payton Seilhamer, Reporter • February 11, 2026 • 53 Views

Teamwork. The girls’ gymnastics team huddles together before starting their meet. The meet took place on Jan. 4, 2023.

The gymnastics team is currently undefeated. The team has been undefeated for 15 consecutive seasons.

They have won seven meets so far, earning victories against teams such as Bellefonte, Ridgway, Waynesboro and Dubois. Each meet has demonstrated the team’s team work, which has helped them stay on top throughout the season.

“Teamwork is one of the most important factors, giving confidence to others and overall making the team feel they have people to go to,” junior gymnastics captain Taylor Knepper said.

In addition to their success this year, the team is three-time state champions. The team hopes to qualify for States with Districts being Feb. 13-14, and States will be held on Feb. 20-21. Although they are undefeated, the team feels their accomplishments often go unnoticed.

“I think the gymnastics team deserves way more recognition than we get; we are one of the best sports teams in our school year after year,” Sophomore gymnast Katie Bettwy said. “Everyone is always coming and cheering on the basketball team, and when we have meets, stands are close to empty with seats only being filled by family. I just wish we got more recognition from our student body because we really do put a lot of work into what we do and it should be showcased.”

Bettwy credits her success not only to her individual talent but also to the strong bond they share as a group.

“Part of the reason we do so well year after year is our teamwork,” Bettwy said. “We are always cheering each other on and offering support. Even if one of us makes a mistake we just move on from it and look for the good. We are also very close, it feels like we have a bond like sisters do.”

Many of the gymnasts are also on teams outside of school, where they spend hours practicing and improving skills. Being part of club teams helps them gain more experience and confidence which they bring back to the school team.

“Most of our gymnasts go to LTD and we are practicing almost 13 hours a week not including the meets, this is giving us more practice time to get higher skills and cleaning up our routines hoping for a rise in our scores,” Knepper said.

About the Contributors

Payton Seilhamer, Reporter

My name is Payton Seilhamer, and I am a Sophmore. This is my first year on the Mountain Echo staff. I am also part of Horseshoe yearbook ,the cheer team and Sophomore Executive Committee. A fun fact about me is I have a twin sister named Addy. In my free time, I like to hangout with my friends and family, listen to music and watch TV.

Makenzie Closson, Associate Editor

My name is Makenzie Closson. I am a second year member of the Mountain Echo and Horseshoe yearbook staffs. Last year, I became a PSPA finalist and even won first in the state for yearbook copy writing. Besides just being involved in the publications, I’m a competitive dancer. I also enjoy playing my guitar, creating art and film making. After high school, I plan to attend a film school to become a director.